Saving Energy, Saving The Planet Essay Example

its kinetic energy back into the vehicle; a considerable portion is lost in this process. Consequently, reusing the same energy as before becomes unattainable. If such recycling were feasible, we could eliminate our reliance on fossil fuels by simply repurposing the generated energy. Nonetheless, regrettably, this ideal situation remains unrealistic. As a result of entropy, both the recycling and creation of energy are impossible.

"Entropy is the phenomenon where objects transition from a state of complexity to simplicity, or from concentration to diffusion." In order to comprehend entropy, Wessels provides a simple analogy. Visualize two distinct rooms: one occupied by an adult and the other by a baby surrounded by toys. After an hour of each individual engaging in their typical activities, which room would exhibit a higher level of entropy? Clearly, the room with the baby, as the baby generates more energy while the adult, who is merely reading, maintains a relatively stable equilibrium. Nevertheless, even the act of turning pages still produces energy in the adult.

The idea of introducing disorder through entropic reactions can only be countered by adding more energy to the system. In simpler words, if a child makes a mess in a room, one needs to put in extra effort to tidy up and bring back order. Wessel's explanation emphasizes that there is no easy or fast solution; reversing entropy always requires injecting more energy into the system.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to bear in mind that this procedure results in a loss of energy. An illustration of this can be seen in humans and their various life stages: growth, adulthood, and maturity. In the growth stage, we acquire more energy

from our surroundings than we emit, showcasing anti-entropy. However, at a specific juncture, we begin emitting nearly an equal amount of energy as we absorb, attaining a state of equilibrium.

As people age, they start using more energy than they take in, leading to entropy. This surplus of energy has positive and negative effects, but it is crucial for the ongoing growth and survival of the Earth. Energy serves as the driving force behind planetary motion, and without it, the Earth would be unable to undergo constant change. Humans convert different types of energy every day, allowing us to have light, movement, and power our daily activities.

Despite societal advancements, harm to the environment persists. The burning of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide, leading to the greenhouse effect, climate change, and increased temperatures. This issue traces back to the inception of electricity by Abraham Lincoln, as human society has become reliant on energy.

The issue at hand is not just humans' dependence on energy, but their excessive usage of it. To demonstrate this, let's examine a typical day in the life of an American - using cars for transportation, elevators, lights, air conditioning, and water - all powered by different types of energy. While some of these energy transformations are necessary, it is crucial to be cautious about overusing them. This behavior has become deeply rooted in our culture and passed down through generations. According to Wessel, the risks associated with increasing energy consumption can be viewed through the perspective of the second law of thermodynamics. Scientifically verified, this law applies to various aspects of life.

In addition, the rejection of unlimited growth has been prevalent among western economists

and governments since the late 1700s. Recently, these two entities have gained more authority to dismiss the second law of thermodynamics in a world where large corporations hold significant influence. These globally-reaching corporations contribute to energy inefficiencies and excessive material consumption. Nevertheless, scholars and researchers emphasize that disregarding the second law of thermodynamics carries repercussions. Wessel supports this notion by providing accessible illustrations of how sustainability can be implemented in complex natural systems worldwide. He employs forests as an example to showcase economic practices that foster sustainability and advancement.

This concise book can be read in one night and serves multiple purposes. It acts as a refresher or overview for those new to the subject or who haven't studied it in a while. Wessels effectively explains scientific theories by using examples of how sustainability laws function in complex natural systems. He shows how models like forests can be used to create sustainable economic practices that will lead to actual progress. Additionally, he emphasizes how our current approach to progress, which relies on constant economic growth and inefficient resource consumption, contradicts these principles.

The law of limits to growth, the second law of thermodynamics, and the law of self-organization dictate the behavior of complex natural systems. In his essay on sustainable development, Wessels challenges conventional notions of economic progress by discussing contrasting viewpoints including linear versus complex systems and uncontrolled growth versus sustainability. Ultimately, the combustion of fossil fuels results in the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, thereby exacerbating the greenhouse effect and leading to climate change and increasing temperatures.

Ever since Abraham Lincoln's discovery of electricity, society has formed a culture that heavily relies on energy.

However, the problem lies not only in our dependence on energy but also in our excessive consumption of it.

Work cited:

1. Wessels, Tom. "The myth of progress: toward a sustainable future." The Electronic Journal of Sustainable Development 1.1 (2007): 51.